Over the past 10 years, DogTrekker’s team of veteran writers and editors have crafted more than 2,500 stories about all of the things you can do with your dog in California. Happy DogTrekking! Remember to travel lightly and always Leave Only Paw Prints®!

Find your oasis in dog-friendly Greater Palm Springs

woman with dog on lap sitting on bone shaped bench
Photo by Visit Greater Palm Springs/@visitgreaterps.
If your vision of a perfect dog-friendly Palm Springs region vacation includes endless blue skies, awe-inspiring mountains, sparkling pools, swaying palm trees, and lots of tail-wagging fun in the sun, you've come to the right place: Greater Palm Springs.  Read more.

An unforgettable ride in Mendocino county

train conductor pets yellow lab
Kayla ready to board the Skunk Train. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
Mendocino County is known for its breathtaking beaches, wineries and even some redwood forests. Hop aboard a historic train with your pup. This adventure takes “Wanna go for a ride?” to epic excitement levels. The century-and-a-half-old Skunk Train starts in Fort Bragg and winds through redwood groves, panoramic trestles and along a stunning river canyon. Pups are welcome on both open and clos  Read more.

A bird’s eye view for your pup in Del Norte County

dog looks out window from SkyTrail gondola
Pups can ride the SkyTrail gondola. Photo by Visit Del Norte County.
Del Norte County is known for its Redwood National & State Parks, sprawling beaches and two wild rivers with plenty of trail fun, but check out some of their most unique dog-friendly attractions, trails and lodging.  Read more.

Dog-approved adventures in California’s North Coast Region

Frenchie Hiking in Redwood Forest
Frenchie hiking the redwood forests of the North Coast.
Our pups have discerning tastes: good sleeps, good eats and plenty of play. Just north of San Francisco, the ‘North of Ordinary’ counties of California – Lake, Mendocino, Humboldt and Del Norte – offer plenty of fun for both you and and your dog on the North Coast in Northern California.  Read more.

Special events for you and your dog

Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash.
Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
DogTrekkers are a giving bunch as witnessed by their support for the adoption/rescue community through donations, volunteering, and attendance at  Read more.

Spring in Yosemite: Spectacular waterfalls!

a large brown dog sitting on top of a lush green field.
Duke at Yosemite. Photo by @dukethechocolatelab.
Spring in Yosemite is incredible this year with bigger and more beautiful spectacular waterfalls, and no reservations needed! California dog parents are perfectly positioned for a visit. Mariposa County and Yosemite National Park are an easy drive from just about anywhere in the state. Head out to enjoy Yosemite’s magnificent waterfalls.   Read more.

Napa Humane Walk for Animals 2023

Maya at Pawsport 2018
Maya at Pawsport 2018, Hall Wines. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
Come support Napa Humane at the 12th annual Walk for Animals fundraising event at Yountville Community Park! This short stroll through town goes miles and miles for Napa Valley’s companion animals. Register, fundraise, walk, then participate in the day’s festivities, including raffles, contests, photo ops, and more.   Read more.

Welcome to summer events!

DogTrekker people at Bark in the Park, San Jose.
DogTrekker at Bark in the Park, San Jose.
Check out these events for a cause! If you missed California rescue/adoption events this spring, no worries, the summer season is just beginning. DogTrekker.com's event section is filled with adoptathons, fundraisers, walks, costume contests, and more. From Bark in the Park in San Francisco, to the Dog Surf-A-Thon in San Diego, to all in for the Wild Blue Dog Fall Camp in Lake Tahoe.  Read more.

Chow down in Greater Ontario

Illustration of Lazy Dog Restaurant.
Hike, eat, chill. Photo by Lazy Dog Restaurant.
Pet-friendly restaurants provide outdoor patios to enjoy a great meal for the entire family, including your dog.   Read more.

Greater Ontario 

A beautiful dog comes up close to the camera while on a hike
When it comes to the “pawfect” road trip for Fido and the family, the cities, historic downtowns, and mountain trails of Greater Ontario are a real treat  Read more.

Family fun with a pup-friendly pedigree

young girl on grass with 2 dogs.
Kids and dogs love the Stanford Inn. Photo by the Stanford Inn.
The Stanford Inn is a family-friendly jewel with plenty of four-paw delights – think hiking trails, a heated saltwater pool, scavenger hunts, canoes that accommodate dogs,  Read more.

Paddle, pedal and play with your pup

dog in canoe
Check-in time at the Stanford Inn is a joyous moment. Pups and their people linger in the lobby, sharing stories about their favorite outdoor adventures. Dogs are welcome across the resort’s guestrooms, grounds, bookstore and lobby, of course, but leave some time to explore the region’s pup-friendly beaches, parks, waterways and trails, too.  Read more.

Wellness meets tail-waggin’ fun at the Stanford Inn

A golden retriever is standing in front of a garden at Stanford Inn with a view of the ocean.
Few places match Mendocino’s natural beauty. The Stanford Inn stretches along 10 coastal acres here, framed by USDA-certified organic gardens, towering trees and Pacific Ocean views. Dog-friendly for 43 years and counting, this charming getaway by innkeepers Jeff and Joan Stanford offers an earth-minded experience with wellness programs, spa services, outdoor adventures and plant-based dining.   Read more.

Napa Humane Walk for Animals 2023

Poodles playing
Come support Napa Humane at the 12th Annual Walk for Animals fundraising event at Yountville Community Park. This short stroll through town goes miles and miles for Napa Valley’s companion animals. Register, fundraise, walk, then participate in the day’s festivities, including raffles, contests, photo ops, and more. And when you register, use code DOGTREKKER for $5 off!   Read more.

Bark and Meow Around the Block

Bark and Meow Around the Block poster
Poster by Berkeley Humane.
Berkeley Humane’s biggest annual adopt-a-thon and family-friendly event, Bark & Meow Around the Block, will return on Saturday, August 26, 2023!   Read more.

Was Calistoga really founded by a dog?

An old photo of a large dog walking down a street.
San Francisco’s Emperor Norton had his dogs Bummer and Lazarus. Calistoga’s Sam Brannan had Leonitus. Archive photo.
The charming Sam Brannan and Leonitus story In the early days of Calistoga, California, a man named Sam Brannan and his loyal Newfoundland dog, Leonitus, embarked on a journey to shape a … Continued  Read more.

Win a Fort Bragg, Mendocino County beach DogCation®!

Enter to Win Beachcomber Dogcation
Win a two-night DogCation® at one of the three Beachcomber Hotel properties in Fort Bragg: The Beachcomber Motel, Surf & Sand Lodge, or the Beach House Inn. In addition, each prize package will include a Skunk Train family pack, bike rentals, and a $100 gift certificate good at the North Coast Brewing Company. DogTrekker respects your privacy and will never sell or rent personal information.  Read more.

Don’t miss Bark in the Park

Person taking photo of dog in costume at Bark in the Park, San Jose
Photo by Bark in the Park.
Bark in the Park is back on September 16 at William Street Park in San Jose from 10am to 5pm. Bark is the Park is the largest dog festival in the United States with fun for the entire family, including the dog! Grab your best friend and a leash and join us for Bark’s 25th year! Enjoy an all-day, outdoor family friendly event. Dogs and their best friends will have a great time.  Read more.

Mendocino magic at every turn

happy yellow lab on grass with water in the background
Maya at Mendocino Headlands State Park. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
From on-site organic gardens and Noyo Harbor fishing village scenes to Fort Bragg murals, the pup-friendly Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens,  Read more.

Noteworthy on California’s North Coast: The Noyo Harbor Inn

seals in the water in front of Noyo Harbor Inn
The Noyo Harbor inn is a Craftsman-style dream with spa treatments, waterfront dining and access to adventures for you and your four-legged family members. From here, it’s easy to explore coastal paths, canoe routes, train rides and restaurant patios across Mendocino County. Fort Bragg’s Noyo Harbor Inn is a spectacular – and seriously dog-friendly – basecamp for enjoying the season.   Read more.

Fall fun with Fido

Couple with a small yellow dog in forest
GOCAL’s endless summer.
Greater Ontario, California offers the ideal setting for an autumn escape that will create cherished memories for you and your loyal companion.   Read more.

Magic is real in pup-friendly Mendocino County

yellow lab with hay bales and pumpkins at Little River Inn
Kayla celebrating harvest at the Little River Inn. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
Mendocino County captivates those who travel with furry family members, and it has also enchanted DogTrekker readers for decades. With mist-cloaked valleys, ancient redwood stands, and stunning state parks that unfold along the coast and across inland peaks, you’ll discover magical landscapes at every turn. Our friends at Visit Mendocino County just unveiled a new website showcasing that magic.  Read more.

Bark Park

Bark Park in Susanville
Photo by Aislyn Clause.
Bark Park in Susanville in Lassen County, is specifically designed to cater to the needs of both large and small dogs, with two distinct areas that allow for safe, off-leash … Continued  Read more.

Ruff-ing it in Shasta County

A man and woman walking a dog on the Whiskeytown Falls trail in Shasta County. - Dogtrekker
Hiking dog-friendly Whiskeytown Falls trails. Photo by Choose Redding.
The community of Redding anchors Shasta County, and it's the gateway to recreational opportunities across the Shasta Cascade region. Set  Read more.

Plan a spring reset in the Shasta Cascade region

Middle McCloud Falls, Siskiyou County, Upstate California.
Middle McCloud Falls, Siskiyou County, Upstate California.
Turn travel dreams into real itineraries with the all-new DogTrekker.com. Your ultimate go-to guide for dog-friendly California adventure sparks inspiration while spotlighting destinations like the Shasta Cascade region (aka Upstate CA). This eight-county playground has more than a dozen national and state parks, plus countless trails, lakes, fishing streams, restaurants and hotels that welcome pu  Read more.

Traveling with your dog in the California deserts

A canine companion rests peacefully on a picturesque desert trail in the expansive Californian wilderness. The landscape is adorned with arid, golden grasses and sturdy shrubs, all under an unbroken azure sky. Majestic mountains rise subtly from the distant horizon, lending an aesthetic touch to this photogenic vista. Framing this serene scene is a grand yucca plant flourishing against all odds in the rugged terrain behind our furry friend.
Maggie in the California desert. Photo by Visit Greater Palm Springs @visitgreaterps.
Embark on a canine adventure through the California deserts! From Death Valley's awe-inspiring vistas to Anza-Borrego's rugged trails, explore the raw beauty of the desert landscapes while creating unforgettable memories with your furry friend. Remember to pack essentials, respect park regulations, and prioritize safety.   Read more.

Make a big splash

Happy dog on boat at Big Bear Lake.
Photo by Visit Big Bear.
It’s not hard to get lured in by the lake lifestyle, especially when your canine companions are welcome on the  Read more.

Winter-friendly things to do with your pets in Yosemite Mariposa

Dog by view of half dome
Photo by Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau.
The Yosemite Mariposa County region offers an adventure-filled vacation not just for humans but for their four-legged companions as well. The stunning scenery and outdoor activities that evoke feelings of joy and awe in humans are bound to elevate the happiness of dogs too. From sniffing pine cones to exploring misty waterfall trails and encountering an abundance of sticks, dogs can revel in the s  Read more.

Four-day Yosemite Mariposa County dog-friendly itinerary

dogs sticking their heads out the window of a SUV in Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Mariposa County is a premier travel destination for all adventurers, no matter how many legs they have. You and your furry companions will have numerous activities and amenities at the tip of your fingers, or paws. Here's a detailed itinerary for four pet-perfect winter days in Yosemite Mariposa County:   Read more.

The thrill of dog agility

Border Collie jumps over an agility hurdle on a dog agility course
Have you ever watched a dog sprint with the exhilaration of a world-class athlete, darting through obstacle courses with a blend of speed and precision? Welcome to the world of dog agility training, where the bond between human and canine is fortified by leaps, bounds, and joyful barks.  Read more.

Top Mendocino picks for waves and wine

man and dog kayaking near the Little River Inn in Mendocino.
Water dog at the Little River Inn. Photo by Brendan McGuigan.
Pristine Pacific coastline. Majestic redwoods. River routes fit for exploring, Mendocino County is magic for two- and four-legged travelers.  Read more.

Top 5 dog parks in California

Dog-friendly California unfurls its varied landscapes like a grand tapestry, from craggy coastlines to serene valleys, tailor-made for the joy of dogs and their human counterparts. We have the most … Continued  Read more.

Four fabulous dog-friendly days in magical Mendocino

A small, fluffy brown dog with a red collar sits on a grass-covered cliff in Mendocino.
Mendocino County makes headlines for so many reasons, including its dog-friendly trails, rails, rivers, peaks and Pacific splendor. This wonderous playground presents unforgettable surprises, whether you’re hiking redwood-shaded routes, sampling local wines, touring a lighthouse or shopping at small-town galleries. With accommodations, amenities and activities tailored to four-legged guests, th  Read more.

Exploring Greater Palm Springs with your dog

A small dog with brown and white fur perches on a stone wall in a lush desert landscape. Palm trees, agave plants, and red flowers dot the surroundings. In the background, mountains rise under a blue sky with scattered white clouds, showcasing the dog-friendly environment of Greater Palm Springs.
Arrival and accommodations Traveling with your dog to Greater Palm Springs and the surrounding California desert region offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, pet-friendly accommodations, and a laid-back vibe. … Continued  Read more.

California coasting with your dog

A golden retriever runs through the shallow water at a California beach, a blue ball clamped in its mouth. Waves roll and crash behind the dog, whose wet fur suggests it has been swimming. The background features churning surf and a distant horizon.
Summer in California means sandcastles, swimming, shoreline walks, and patio dinners at sunset – all with your dog in tow. As we look ahead to this year’s splash season, the DogTrekker team has put together pup-tested itineraries for some of the state’s best coastal destinations. Slap on the sunscreen and get ready to roll. Whether you want to surf, watch waves, or paddle tranquil rivers,   Read more.

Find fall fun with your dog on the shores of South Lake Tahoe

A group of people and their dogs hike through a rocky trail in a forested area. Large boulders and tall trees surround them. They take in the scenic view of South Lake Tahoe's lake and mountains under a clear sky, enjoying the fall season.
Photo by Wild Blue Dogs.
Fall is a great time to visit Lake Tahoe, thanks to fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and, of course, that dazzling blue water. FALL CAMP Wild Blue Dogs holds their Fall Camp activities September 16 – 22 on a fenced, 33-acre property between Edgewood Golf Course and Zephyr Cove, on the Nevada side of the lake. (The facility doubles as a midsummer 4-H camp).   Read more.

Discover dog-friendly Oakland: A canine paradise

A carved wooden sculpture of a dog's head stands out, showcasing detailed craftsmanship. Behind it, an Oakland street appears blurred but recognizable with trees and parked cars lining the pavement. The sculpture features a collar adorned with intricate patterns.
Cappuccino the Dog is a beloved statue located at the intersection of Alcatraz Avenue and Racine Street in North Oakland. The statue was created by artist Devyon Harrison and represents Cappuccino, a terrier-lab mix.
Oakland is a fantastic place to visit or live with your dog. It’s sunny when San Francisco is foggy, and it’s very dog-friendly when some communities try to discourage dog people. Some of the best parks (can you say towering redwoods?) to hike with your dog are right here, and the Oakland food scene with its dog-friendly diversity of delicious food and drink is not to missed. Let's look at all  Read more.

On & off-leash adventures

A woman in a light blue outfit and baseball cap sits on a boat beside her white Labrador Retriever. They both enjoy the sunny day on Big Bear Lake, with forested hills and clear skies in the background.
Maya & Roxanne on a Holloway’s Marina & RV Park Pontoon Boat. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
It’s not hard to get lured in by the lake lifestyle, especially when your canine companions are welcome on the  Read more.

Wild Blue Dogs camp along Lake Tahoe? You lucky dog.

A person sits on a wooden dock at sunset, flanked by two large dogs. The person is facing away from the camera and being licked on both sides of their face by the affectionate dogs. Calm waters of Lake Tahoe and soft sunlight provide a serene backdrop, creating a moment of simple companionship and peace.
There is still time to book your Lake Tahoe adventure! Photo by Sharon, Barbara, Diane.
Remember the magic of sleepaway camp? Now imagine a similar adventure, but for adults – with your pup by your side! That dream is real during Wild Blue Dogs’ 2024 fall camp, September 16 to 22. Set on the Lake Tahoe waterfront, this exciting getaway packages dog-friendly activities, instruction, meals, and fun with new friends.You’ll also enjoy great weather, clear water and quiet Tahoe bea  Read more.

Enter the Go California Dog photo contest!

Sammy swimming in the American River. Photo by Jane Chapa. 2015 Go California judges’ winner.
Sammy swimming in the American River. Photo by Jane Chapa. 2015 Go California judges’ winner.
If you have a passion for pups, photography and travel, you are at the right place. Snap photos of your four-legged friends enjoying beaches, lakes, mountain trails, picnic grounds and other California (or east Lake Tahoe/Nevada) attractions and enter the Go California Dog photo contest! Submit your best shots between now and September 30, 2024. You and your friends can also vote. Win on  Read more.

Where to stay and play in Big Bear this fall

Illustration depicts two bears hugging
Big Bear Lake sparkles as summer transitions to autumn and the leaves start turning yellow, orange and red. Warm, sun-soaked days are refreshed with cooler evenings, when inky night skies beckon stargazers. Your four-legged friends get even more room to play during the less-crowded shoulder season, which also comes with the perks of lower lodging rates. Find your perfect dog-friendly home away fr  Read more.

Bark in the Park

A beige bulldog, outfitted in a pink tutu and headband, rests on the grass at Bark in the Park. Nearby, someone in a yellow and white striped shirt bends down with a phone to take a photo. The person also holds blue leashes connected to the dog's harness.
Photo by Bark in the Park.
Grab your best friend and a leash and head to Bark in the Park Saturday, September 21 at William Street Park in downtown San Jose! Dogs and their people will have a great time at the largest dog festival in the United States with more than 15,000 dog lovers and 3,900 dogs. Money raised from Bark in the Park benefits local community and pet-focused organizations.  Read more.

Canines reign supreme in Carmel

A large Labrador retriever with a caramel coat sprawls comfortably on a neatly made bed. With its mouth slightly open, the dog exudes contentment and relaxation. The room's soft lighting casts a warm atmosphere, complemented by wooden furniture and a window offering an inviting view outside.
Kayla loves the Cypress Inn, Carmel. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is consistently ranked one of the most dog-friendly communities in all of America. The artsy hamlet   Read more.

Woof it up in Vacaville

hanging sign that reads "winery tasting room open"
So…what do you and your pup know about dog-friendly Vacaville and its slice of Solano County? Maybe not much if all you’ve done is zoom past the exits on Interstate 80.  Read more.

Capital sipping experiences

group of friends sit at a table with a dog clinking full wine glasses
Sacramento is not only the star on the map of California, it’s a fabulous base camp for exploring wineries in and within a short distance of town (check out our list of great dog-friendly places to stay).  Read more.

Day 4: Barking ways

Dog on branch in Yosemite
“All-Paw-Drive” in National Forests.
Hit the trails with your four-legged friends. All vacations come to a close, or else we’d all be living a dog’s life! Enjoy your last day to its fullest with … Continued  Read more.

To Bridgeport and beyond in the Eastern Sierra

red and white spaniel sits in front of tufas and Mono Lake
Bodie at Mono Lake. Photo by Cathy Crnkovich.
Oh, so many dog-friendly overnight choices! The town of Bridgeport, about 100 miles south of Carson City in Mono County, offers multiple options: The historic Bridgeport Inn (dog-friendly rooms are in a motel-style building out back, but you can both enjoy dinner on the porch); the Ruby Inn, Big Meadow Lodge and Walker River Lodge.  Read more.

When and where to go in the Eastern Sierra

View of mountain lake surrounded by trees with vibrant red, orange and yellow leaves
Fall color in the the Eastern Sierra. Photo by Jennifer Chen.
Summers are glorious for dogs in the Eastern Sierra while winters are devoted to snow sports,but the best time of year, especially if you’re into photography, is late September into mid-October.  Read more.

First time paws-ing in Redding?

Explore a breathtaking, contemporary cable-stayed bridge with your furry friend. This visually striking structure is anchored by a single, elegant white pylon, gracefully stretching over an inviting body of water. Perfect for an adventurous walk or relaxing picnic with your tail-wagging companion. - Dogtrekker
Sundial Bridge. Photo by Choose Redding.
If you’re new to Redding and the eight-county UpState CA region, start at the Shasta Cascade Welcome Center that’s just down the road in Anderson. Open daily and packed with free maps, brochures, exhibits, geocaching guidance, gifts and even a waterfall pond with wild trout, it's your gateway to the area’s experiences. The DogTrekker team has also outlined a few of our favorite dog-frien  Read more.

Wag your way through the Central Valley

Dog boarding a Western Railway museum train
Photo by Chris Howe, Western Railway Museum.
Redwood forests and mountains might be more scenically impressive, but there’s a different kind of ambience to be had in California’s flatlands. And the dog-friendly excursion trains that operate here provide plenty of diversions. Take, for example, the electric trains of the Western Railway Museum, a repository of history from the pre-Interstate days when Northern California communit  Read more.

Unsure about your dog on a train? Try a small-scale starter train

Redwood Valley Railroad in Tilden Park, Berkeley.
Photo by David McSpadden (cc).
Don’t know if your dog will like riding the rails? You can always try a training ride on the Tilden/Redwood Valley Railway in Berkeley’s Tilden Regional Park. It’s an authentic miniature steam train featuring more than 30 pieces of rolling stock. Call ahead if bringing a dog. One of the East Bay Regional Park District’s three oldest parks, Tilden has been called the jewe  Read more.

Cruising for history and scenery in Santa Cruz County

bulldog on open-air train
Engineer-in-training on Roaring Camp Railroad. Photo by Visit Santa Cruz.
Roaring Camp Railroads, based out of Felton in Santa Cruz County, provides more than just a dog-friendly ride. The company’s Redwood Forest Steam Trains roll on a narrow-gauge track once used to haul giant redwood logs from the forest. They cruise now on 75-minute trips from Roaring Camp to Bear Mountain, where a picnic stop and hiking trails await.  Read more.

Special adventures for furry friends in Mendocino

Person paddling kayak with dog by the Little River Inn
Water dog at the Little River Inn. Photo by Brendan McGuigan.
Mendocino County has so many dog-friendly activities that you might want to stay a few extra days. The Skunk Train is a northern California classic that departs from depots in coastal Fort Bragg and inland Willits  Read more.

Tenaya Lodge with the kids – summer

Kids playing in pool at Tenaya Lodge.
Not surprisingly, a place as big as Yosemite is home to plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for children of all ages. Of course, there’s the seemingly-endless natural beauty waiting in Yosemite Valley. As just one example, Glacier Point offers outstanding stargazing.  Read more.

Treat your pup to a Yosemite vacation

May dog at Tenaya Lodge Explorer cabin lying by the fireplace.
Maya enjoying the Explorer Cabins at Tenaya Lodge. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
Feeling a little spring fever? Now is the perfect time to plan a getaway with your furry friend. The Explorer Cabins at Tenaya Lodge are designed for pet-lovers, making dog travel a breeze. These modern, two-bedroom cabins are tucked on 27 wooded acres—perfect for adventuring with two- and four-legged family members—and they’re just minutes from the main lodge and more resort ame  Read more.

Wag your way through Old Sac

Sunrise over West Sacramento
Sacramento’s No. 1 tourist destination is as popular with locals as with visitors. And now that masks are off and smiles are on, it’s crazy hopping with activity again. The Old Sacramento Waterfront is loaded with history – it played a major role as a jumping off spot and supply center during the 1849 Gold Rush. With its waterfront location, wealth of historic buildings and protection as a s  Read more.

All aboard a historic train through the redwoods

Dog boarding a Roaring Camp railroad car.
Roaring Camp Railroads. Photo by Visit Santa Cruz.
See California’s towering redwoods from an authentic 19th-century steam train through the Big Trees to the summit of Bear Mountain at Roaring Camp Railroads. Well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard and will love to put their nose to the sky as they take in the smells of the redwoods. And for the active pups that want to get some miles in, there are plenty of trails and grounds to explore!  Read more.

Fall into Mendocino County

golden retriever on deck in front of tent at Mendocino Grove.
Photo by Mendocino Grove.
California travelers know fall is the ripe time to pack the hiking boots for an adventure in Northern California’s Mendocino County.  Read more.

Board the storied Skunk Train

Yellow lab with conductor in front of the Skunk Train
Kayla gets ready to board. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
Experience classic Mendocino County on the California Western Railroad’s Redwood Route, a logging-era line established in 1885.  Read more.

Open air dog-friendly activities perfect for social distancing

Dog and sculpture
By now, we all know the drill: wash your hands, cover your face in public, maintain six feet of “social distancing” between yourself and anyone else who is not a member of your household “bubble.” So where does your dog fit in? Right by your side, as always! In Mendocino County, you’ll have access to many activities that let you have fun while still adhering to the gu  Read more.

Hear the lonely whistle blow, watch the plants bloom

Dog in the Mendocino Coast Botanical gardens
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Photo by Jessica Bay.
When visiting Fort Bragg with your dog, there are two activities you won’t want to woof out on. First is Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, a dog-friendly, bluff-top showplace best known for rare species of rhododendrons that thrive few places outside Southeast Asia and the Himalayas.  Read more.

At Tahoe: Plowed trails for tails

woman with dog walking on a plowed trail
Sometimes when in snow country you just want to walk the dog, not make a gear-heavy, ski or snowshoe production of it. At Lake Tahoe, you’re in luck with a network of plowed, multipurpose trails   Read more.

New training classes at the East Bay SPCA

Dog ready for training
The East Bay SPCA has completely revamped their training classes to accommodate the modern needs of the urban or suburban dog while using the most effective, cutting-edge, scientifically supported learning theory and teaching methods. "Skill Builders" is the entry level class designed to teach general good manners in the home and the foundation necessary for more advanced training.  Read more.

East Bay SPCA dog training classes

Brown and white dog on leash does "down" command
Photo by Destiny Wiens.
The East Bay SPCA has completely revamped their training classes to accommodate the modern needs of the urban or suburban dog while using the most effective, cutting-edge, scientifically supported learning theory and teaching methods.  Read more.

Luxury Gold Country farm visit

Dog & Pony ranch aerial photo
Photo by Dog & Pony Ranch.
DogTrekker showcases many different types of lodging and family experiences, but none quite compares with the farm stay adventure at Dog & Pony Ranch in Amador County. Maya, DogTrekker.com’s Director of Barketing, loves hiking on the 60-acre ranch, swimming in the dog-friendly pond, getting nose-to-nose with the horses, llamas, mini-donkeys and chickens (extensive fencing keeps dogs safely s  Read more.

Get a dog-friendly lift at Mammoth or Tahoe

A cable car labeled "Palisades Tahoe" ascends over rugged mountainous terrain. The backdrop features distant peaks, partly obscured by clouds during sunset. The scene is painted in shades of green from the trees, blue from the sky, and orange from the setting sun. It resembles views you might see on a ride in a Mammoth tram.
Palisades Tahoe Tram
Both you and your dog will enjoy the novelty of a lift-assisted hike at the Northstar California, Palisades Tahoe or Mammoth Mountain ski resorts, all of which welcome four-legged passengers in their enclosed aerial conveyances.  Read more.

Make it a family affair in Marin County

picnic table and wine barrel with decorative pumpkins in from of Marin Country Mart sign
Photo by Marin Country Mart.
Marin County it’s been said, has a larger population of dogs than of children. Whether that’s urban legend or fact, residents are definitely known to dote on their four-legged family members.  Read more.

The benefits of crate training

Dog on a pad in a crate
By Chris Pitts, RVT, of Broadway Animal Hospital Crate training is awesome! Puppies and adult dogs alike can really benefit from having a place to call their den. Crate training can cut down on inappropriate elimination in the house, diminish your dog's stress, and simplify traveling with your furry friend. Make the crate as inviting as possible.  Read more.

Tails wag on Big Sur Coast

Big Sur
Big Sur. Photo by Lisha Riabinina.
Take a drive on the scenic California Coast to Big Sur, pulling over at beaches, redwood forests and fun dog-friendly stops that are sure to please both two and four-leggers.  Read more.

Rev up in Redding

Sundial Bridge.
Sundial Bridge. Photo by Turtle Bay Exploration Park.
Redding (population about 100,000) is the Shasta Cascade region’s largest city, and it’s a great place to make base camp with your four-legged friend.  Read more.

Beach bliss at South Lake Tahoe

A couple of dogs standing on a sandy beach at Lake Tahoe dog beach.
Looking to spend some quality beach time with your four-legged pal at Lake Tahoe's South Shore? We've scouted out the spots where Sparky is welcome to romp in the sand and dip his paws in the Big Blue.  Read more.

Ride the Tilden Railway with Rufus

Redwood Valley Railroad
Redwood Valley Railroad in Berkeley’s Tilden Regional Park. Photo by David McSpadden (CC).
Kids (and dogs) of all ages visiting Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley are drawn like magnets to the Tilden/Redwood Valley Railway, a miniature train that has been looping around the park since 1952.  Read more.

The value of crate training

Tobi enjoying her crate. (CC) Laura Harris By Jeannine Berger, DVM, DACVB, DACAW, CAWA, San Francisco SPCA Some dog owners believe crate training is cruel and dogs should not be confined. The truth is that a crate, if introduced correctly, can be a safe haven and a great place for a dog. A crate can provide a great sense of security and stability for your dog. Keep in mind that it is important t  Read more.

Mendocino’s inland empire

Skunk train
Skunk Train. Photo by Brendan McGuigan.
Many Mendocino County visitors stay glued to the scenic stretch of coastline between Little River and Fort Bragg, but to do so is to miss out on redwoods, wineries, off-the-beaten-path seaside preserves and small, inland towns that extend a warm welcome to travelers with pets.  Read more.

Vroom over to vacaville

Panoramic view of Lagoon Valley Park in Vacaville, California, USA, featuring oak tree and a lake and pedestrian walkway around it, from above
Lagoon Valley Park, Vacaville.
Sometimes the places in our own backyard are the least explored. And for many Northern Californians, Vacaville, a familiar name on Interstate 80, is one of them.  Read more.

At Tahoe: The ultimate doggie meetup

Two dog-friendly dogs standing on a sandy beach in North Lake Tahoe.
Dogs on the beach at Lake Tahoe.
Who hasn’t gazed out at Lake Tahoe and wished there was a really good beach where dogs could run, leap, swim, dock dive and otherwise play to their hearts’ content? Well, there is. For two or three weeks each summer, Camp Winnaribbun, on Tahoe’s southeast shore, opens its gates to what only can be described as doggie paradise. Photo: Anne Chadwick WIlliams  Read more.

Kick, glide, bark

cross country skier with brown dog with snow and pine trees
Photo by Rich Morgan.
Cross-country skiing is intensely popular in Northern California snow country, but if you prefer groomed trails at developed ski areas, your need to know where dogs are welcome and where they're not.  Read more.

Take it to Tahoe

kayakers on Lake Tahoe
Photo by Tahoe City Kayak.
Dogs won't fit in just any kayak, and expecting them to balance like acrobats on a slippery bow is unrealistic if not dangerous.  Read more.

Pie am i in gold country

The sun shines through the trees in an apple hill vineyard.
Photo by Apple Hill Growers.
Things get so busy in October in the Apple Hill region of El Dorado County that shuttle buses are put into play. But from Labor Day weekend until the calendar page turns, you’ll enjoy the bounty without the crowds at 56 family-owned “ranches” between Placerville and Pollock Pines.  Read more.

A mammoth undertaking

Photo by Mammoth Lakes
Photo by Mammoth Lakes.
The Mammoth Lakes area of the Eastern Sierra holds some of California's most stunning—and paw-friendly —high-altitude landscapes. At Mammoth Mountain, hikers with leashed dogs can hop aboard the Panorama Gondola for a ride to the mountain's 11,053-foot summit and 360-degree views of surrounding peaks.  Read more.

Paw your way to High Camp

A group of people and dogs sitting at a table overlooking snowy mountains at Palisades Tahoe.
Palisades Tahoe iconic aerial tram offers what is perhaps the most dramatic scenic mechanized mountain high at Lake Tahoe. Many passengers in the dog-friendly stand-up conveyance  Read more.

Shop talk

man and girl sit on ledge of fountain with dog
Photo by Mart Production.
Shopping with a dog can be problematic—unless, of course, you're shopping for the dog. A best bet for yourself and for Fido is the merrily lit, boutique-lined stretch of Union Street  Read more.

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